Injuries happen all the time, and most injuries do not require medical treatment. Minor injuries like bumps and bruises happen on a daily basis, and often we do not even notice them. Some bumps and bruises may require medical attention, depending on location, but most can be treated at home with an ice pack and rest, with no further medical attention needed. However, when it comes to injuries to bones, muscles and joints, a visit to the orthopedic may be necessary.
Who Do You Call?
When the injury first occurs, you may notice swelling around the area. Slow developing swelling can be reduced through home treatment. An ice pack should be applied to any injury as soon as possible. Ice packs will help reduce swelling Hallux valgus and can ease the pain of the injury. Over-the-counter pain killers may help alleviate the pain until a doctor can be consulted. Resting can also help alleviate the pain and swelling.
As a rule of thumb, immediate swelling is an indicator of a more serious injury and it may require medical attention. Any injury that incurs massive swelling within the first 30 minutes of the injury is a sign of a trauma that will require a doctor's care. It is best not to wait, just head directly to the emergency room.
If after rest and ice packs, if you are still unable to move it, use it and it is still swollen, you should call your doctor immediately. It is always best to visit your primary care physician, if able or an urgent care facility if it is after hours or on the weekend. Delay in medical treatment can prolong the injury and your suffering.
Orthopaedics
Once a physician has looked at your injury and determined the seriousness of the damage, they may refer you to an orthopedic. Orthopedic doctors specialize in the musculoskeletal system of the body. Orthopedic specialists focus on many different bone and joint conditions, such as setting and resetting fractures; overuse of joints and ligaments; scoliosis and related back conditions, and much more. If your injury requires surgery, your physician will likely refer you to an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in those repairs.
Orthopedic doctors don't just set broken bones and fractures. There are several sub-groups that fall in the orthopedics realm. Overuse and ligament damage in athletes are common injuries that orthopedic doctors treat, as well as physical deformities. If you have an injury due to overuse or deformity that needs to be corrected, an orthopedic specialist can help.
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